Helene (Eleni) Kougioumzidou

In Loving Memory of Helen Kougioumzidou
Helen Kougioumzidou, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and generosity. She was born on September 20, 1932, in the village of Agios Andonios, Kastoria, Greece, to her devoted parents, Kiki and Andreas. As the eldest of eight children, Helen learned responsibility, strength, and compassion at a young age—qualities that defined her entire life.
Growing up in a small village, Helen developed her skills as a talented seamstress, a craft that would shape her future. In 1957, with courage and determination, she immigrated to Toronto, Ontario, Canada, in search of a better life. There, she worked at Eaton’s as a seamstress before dedicating over 30 years to the fur industry, where she was admired and deeply respected for her exceptional talent, tireless work ethic, and kindness. She worked day and night to provide for her family, earning the admiration of coworkers, friends, and her extended work family.
Helen was married to Antonio (predeceased), and together they built a life rooted in family and perseverance. She was a devoted mother to her daughter, Zafiro whom she raised with unwavering love and pride—her daughter truly being the center of her world.
Beyond her professional skills, Helen was known for her incredible cooking. She was especially famous for her patata pita and traditional Greek dishes, recipes no one could ever quite replicate. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and love. She was also an accomplished knitter and seamstress, creating beautiful pieces with her hands and her heart.
Helen was fun, outgoing, and deeply social. She loved being surrounded by her family and friends. In her final two years, she resided at the Hellenic Home, where she enjoyed the companionship of friends and the comfort of having her siblings nearby bringing her joy and a strong sense of community.
Above all else, Helen adored her son-in-law Carlos, all her nieces, nephews and her three grandchildren—Anthony, Ellena, and Sophia—who brought immense happiness to her life. She was a proud and loving yiayia who will be remembered for her warmth, and loving care.
Helen Kougioumzidou will be forever remembered for her kindness and her vibrant spirit, and the deep love she shared with everyone who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and in the traditions she so lovingly passed down.
May her memory be eternal.

In lieu of flowers donations to The Hellenic Home for the aged in Helens memory would be greatly appreciated

https://hellenichome.org/donations-giving/ways-of-giving/

Funeral Service Information:

Visitation: Friday January 2, 2026
10:00 am to 11:00 am
Sts. Anargyroi Greek Orthodox Church
Hellenic Home
11 Winona Drive, Toronto, ON

Funeral Service: Friday January 2, 2026
11:00 am
Sts. Anargyroi Greek Orthodox Church
Hellenic Home
11 Winona Drive, Toronto, ON

Interment:
York Cemetery
160 Beecroft Rd, North York, ON M2N 1W7
Section 29